Cholesterol & cardiovascular risk in Dubai
Raised LDL cholesterol, ApoB and Lp(a) are the most modifiable drivers of heart attack and stroke. Testing and interpretation should always be paired with an overall cardiovascular risk score, not judged in isolation.
Overview
A modern lipid assessment goes beyond total cholesterol and includes LDL, HDL, triglycerides, ApoB and — at least once in a lifetime — Lp(a). Treatment decisions balance genetic risk, existing conditions, absolute 10-year risk and patient preference.
Common risk factors
- · Family history of raised cholesterol or early heart disease
- · Diabetes and metabolic syndrome
- · South Asian or Middle Eastern ancestry
- · Diet high in saturated fat and ultra-processed food
Relevant tests
- · Full lipid profile
- · ApoB
- · Lp(a)
- · HbA1c
- · Liver function
When to book a GP
- · You have never had a lipid panel as an adult
- · Existing statin needs a review
- · Family history of early cardiovascular events
Relevant Aafiyah services
- · Chest pain on exertion, especially if new
- · Sudden severe headache, weakness or speech change — call 998
Dubai emergency services: 998.
Questions people ask
Is Lp(a) worth measuring?+
Yes, at least once in adulthood. Lp(a) is largely genetic and identifies people who need more aggressive control of other risk factors.
Talk to a doctor about cholesterol & cardiovascular risk.
Clinic, home or virtual — same-day GP appointments in Dubai.
Catch issues early in Dubai — doctor-led screening, bloods & longevity baseline.
Same-day appointments across Dubai and neighbouring communities. Home or clinic visits. WhatsApp us — the message is pre-filled with your area so our team can route you to the closest available slot.
Flagship clinic: Unit G09, Churchill Executive Towers, Business Bay · Home visits 24/7.
WhatsApp +971 4 566 1486 · Reviewed by Aafiyah's clinical team.
New · Free · Powered by AI + NICE / NHS / Mayo Clinic guidance
Not sure what's wrong? Try our AI Symptom Checker.
Describe how you feel in plain English. In seconds you'll get evidence-based possible causes, the exact blood tests or checks that help rule things in or out, and a clear next step with an Aafiyah doctor — in clinic or at home, anywhere in Dubai.
- ✓ Free & anonymous
- ✓ Evidence-based (NICE, NHS, Mayo)
- ✓ Not a diagnosis — a smart first step
Start where you're comfortable.
Read first, talk to a doctor, or book in — whichever stage you're at, there's a no-pressure way in.
Free Primary Care Guide
What proper primary care should look like — a short, honest PDF written by our British-trained team. Read it before you decide on a clinic.
Free 15-Minute Doctor Call
Not sure if we're the right fit? Book a free discovery call with one of our GPs. No commitment, no sales — just a clinician answering your questions.
20% Off Your First GP Consultation
First-time patients save 20% on their first GP consultation with one of our British-trained doctors. GP consultations only — blood tests, IV drips, physio, home-visit fees and other services are excluded. Mention this offer when you enquire.